THE STREIT STUFF FOR THE CAPTAINCY
Weight, Witt, KO also among the leaders for letters
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The Islanders could name a captain before the opening of training camp, or hold off until the team returns from their retreat to Saskatoon. There’s also the slight possibility the Islanders decline to appoint a full-time captain out of the gate and go with a rotation of As instead.
As of May 20, the leaders in the clubhouse, if you will…
Mark Streit (3-1): Surprised the Islanders almost as much with his leadership as his all-star play. Emotional and out-spoken in the locker room. Bruno Gervais told me in February that Streit improved his game not by playing alongside him but by the veteran pushing him at every practice and even between shifts in-game.
Downright angelic when the media is in the room. Said to be fiery at times behind closed doors. Signed for four more years, so the Islanders could have rare stability with the captaincy. The favorite.
Doug Weight (8-1): Talks a really good game, and we don’t mean that as an insult. A go-to guy with the press, as David Cone was with the dynastic Yankees, and that counts for a lot. Has the ability to do a 15-minute interview with NHL.com and for a brief while make everyone in Islanders Country feel like the team will make the playoffs, the Lighthouse Project will be built and world peace is right around the corner.
Highly-regarded by teammates, head coach and management. Biggest drawback: 38 years old and only signed for one season. Do the Islanders want to hand the captaincy to someone who could be around less than a season? Almost definitely will be an A, could get the C for a year as a bridge to someone else.
Brendan Witt (10-1): After the misstep of publicly questioning his coach in November, by January Witt was a coach’s favorite and a major voice in the room when the team started to stabilize for a solid second half.
Not your classic captain material because he’s an original thinker, says whatever’s on his mind and has so many other interests outside of hockey. Then again, so did Denis Potvin. Under contract for two more seasons. A good bleeder. Likely an Alternate, will be under consideration for the C.
Trent Hunter (30-1): Impeccable character, the opposite of clubhouse lawyer, dedicated to the game and his team, waved off unrestricted free agency and signed for four more years. Not a serious candidate for the C because he is low-key, more of a leader by example, and the Islanders at this stage need more than that.
Richard Park (40-1): As a leader, the complete package in his work habits, integrity and stand-up nature with his teammates and with the press. A strong possibility for an A, or at least part of an A rotation. In his final year of contract and will not be captain.
Kyle Okposo (50-1): A potential captain, just as he is a potential all-star forward. Could get an A to represent the young guard, but it would be a monumental mistake to rush Okposo into the captaincy. Coming off an eye-opening season, but not a breakthrough one. Let the kid grow as a player first.
Mystery Man (70-1): Could be an unrestricted free agent, or maybe a major acquisition when Garth Snow’s trade partner needs to give up a cherished veteran for salary cap relief. Can’t rule out an A.
Rick DiPietro (100-1): When healthy, DiPietro is hands-down the emotional leader of the team. Vancouver’s crowning of Roberto Luongo opened the door for goaltenders. Until DiPietro regains his health and gets back on his game for two straight seasons, he’ll have to stay a leader without an official title.
The First Overall Pick (1,000-1): No matter who it is, not gonna happen - not even an A. Here’s hoping the Islanders don’t rush him, either. He can be captain at age 25, after the Islanders sign him to a long-term deal.
Comments on this topic here. Conversation on you-know-what continues below.
103 Responses to “THE STREIT STUFF FOR THE CAPTAINCY
Weight, Witt, KO also among the leaders for letters”
Please Wait
Always thought Witt should have been the captain of this team, but I do like Streit for the fact that he is signed for four more years and he’s a terrific player. My thouhts are Streit for the C, Weight and Witt with the A.
After reading the NHL.com article I was all bout Doug Weight being the captain. For a veteran who has been here one year to have that much faith in the team, the system, and the young players is refreshing. But CB you are totally right about needing stability at the C position. The Isles haven’t had that since, well Pat Flatley, maybe Sutter before him. Mark Streit needs to be the man.
Streit would be a good captain!.
should be streit for all the reasons you listed. maybe they hand it to bailey after streit.
not a tough call on the C. Streit hands down. coming to terms of the A Witt and Weight are the definite that should get it with Park not far behind, but I think there is something to be said for Okposo and representative of the young crops. I think letting Okposo play one more year without giving him the responsibility is most likely the way to go. that way revolving A’s for home and away between park weight and witt. Have to give something to park he is the consummate professional and with a cheap contract.
Weight,Witt are not going to be around long enough, Okposo could get an A soon and could be a captain in the future. Streit is the right man, signed for 4 more years. He is always captain of Switzerland in international tournaments.
I am all for Streit and not the rush of our younger guys, though it has worked out for Chicago and the Penguins. I dont think our younger players are at the level or the caliber of those two captains yet. Look at Detroit and Lidstrom, well spoken, leads by example, and leads on/off the ice. He is 38.
Streit, really coming into his own this past year, getting a full time position in his second full year in the Nhl at 31. Yes in 4 years he will be 35, though like most dman you see now a days, they are all older and come into their prime around 30 like streit, who has alot to build on and tons of confindence.
I think he will be signed for another 4 years when his contract is done. Streit gets my vote.
Great Post CB,
I was of the thought that this team CANNOT play musical “C” anymore. They need stability on and off the ice. For a while, I’ve been of the thought that rotating A’s would be the right way to go this upcoming season. The reason is that a letter is such an honor for so many players that they provide an additional level of play when wearing it. Steve Webb was a perfect example. When Lavy gave him the A in the playoff game against TO and led the team onto the ice, you can see the fire he provided. This past season provided several guys a chance to wear the A, Marty stood out to me the most. His first game with the A, he looked great.
My point, a letter is an honor in the NHL. By rotating it, you get to see the leadership qualities of the players and hopefully get some great games out of them.
hmm… interesting. I just told my husband that at dinner last night. “Mark Streit will wear the C.” And deservedly so.
I tend to think Weight will get it. I mean they gave it to Guerin without him playing a game here. Weight has been helping the young guys esp Bailey. I think he should get it for a year and maybe another if he has a good year. Then give it Streit or Okposo. Being captain is alot of stress and I think it might be too much for them. A vet like Weight can handle it and when the right time comes, he can hand it off to the right person. They are a fragile team and need some balance in there. Weight is a great leader and speaker. He has the experience this team needs to learn from. But all in all id be happy with either Weight, Streit, or Witter. GO ISLES!!!!
Streit should get it for the remainder of his contract, then KO after him. Eventually we will hopefully be giving an A to JT as well down the line
Streit will be the captain but please take that picture down. I can find one of him playing hockey on google if ya need one cb.
I was all for Witt being the Captain up until last year. (I always thought they should have made him captain over Guerin in 2007). But after seeing what Streit has to offer I have changed my mind.
Captain - Streit
Alternate - Witt
Alternate - Okposo
Streit also has the recommendation of Bill Guerin, who said (after Weight had already been re-signed) that Streit was the best player on the team and was the obvious choice for captain next season.
Streit without a doubt. he takes the pressure off of the young guys.. looks calm in all situations
The exact quote was even more glowing. “Mark Streit really is one of the best [defensemen] I’ve ever played with. Streit should be captain of that team.”
that picture is a bit ghey - not that there is anything wrong with that - but there is something wrong with the picture…kinda a-rod-like
#16: Those were Guerin’s words: I love it!
agree with #13. Weight doesnt need a letter on his jersey to be a leader
I’m partial to Hunter myself, but Streit is a great choice as well. Keep the letters off of the young players and let them grow into leaders without the letter before we put that kind of pressure on them.
Streit, no doubt, if he is still here
remember that old saying, “it’s a privilege to play in the NHL.” There is no one understand this better than Streit. It’s a no-brainer… Streit should be the next captain.
Streit getting the C would make for a great story. Going from 7th D/12th Fwd in Montreal to captaining the Isles in 2 years! Maybe Komisarek will be a similar bargain this summer.
I like Streit for the “C”. I really felt it should be Witt last year, but I think Streit’s on ice leadership is to much to overlook. I think Gordan should pull Weight aside this year, give him an “A” and tell him that his mission is to teach Tavares and Bailey everything he can about being a center in the NHL. Take those 2 under his wing. I think he would serve the Isles well doing that solely!!
I think naming Streit captain is a no-brainer. He is a leader, our best player, and is well-respected by teammates. The only question should be who gets the A. My choices would be Weight and Witt, with Okposo next in line if someone gets traded or goes down with an injury. It doesn’t have to be complicated or some secretive guessing-game.
What about BILL GUERIN coming back for one more year after he wins a cup, keeping the C?
Bill Guerin ain’t ever coming back!
Okposo needs an A.
Streit needs an A or a C.
Weight, Hunter, Witt, and Park don’t seem secure enough in their longterm futures with the team to get anything. I guess any could get an A but this last A or C probably goes to someone new.
Would not want to see Guerin here. I thought he dogged it a lot this season.
I like Streit to be the captain especially if everything said about him is true. If Gervais is proof of his attitude then that is a perfect example of what a Captain should be and what the Isles have been missing.
Mark Streit is an allstar caliber player and from what you read, the impression is he’s a verbal and emotional leader on and off the ice. He proved it by helping influence Gervais and pushing him to make huge strides in his game this past season. Bruno looked like a top 4 d-man, no joke. With all that being said, Doug Weight is born to be a capt, IMHO. I have been raving about his character and his positive attitude ever since he was a guest commentator with Jaffe & Rose during a short stint of a period this year. Simply stated, he’s a “class act” and I don’t think I’ve witnessed a player, signed with the Isles, with a better attitude and that’s what we need in a captain. Its a shame he’s in the end stages of his career. I can only hope he has a few more good years of good hockey left in his 39 year old body and hopefully he resigns and retires an Islander captain.
CB and All.
Really surprised you left one person out: Josh Bailey.
You’ve done a couple of pieces on him and his leadership skills, and how his maturity has been an everything plus what the Islanders could have expected.
I don’t think he’ll be Captain tomorrow, but if KO is in this, I don’t see why he wouldn’t have been ahead or equal with him. I’d put their odds equal. Like most of you guys, I’d see a higher likelihood of either Bailey or KO getting an A.
Chris, was that intentional?
I feel this is a no brainer as well. Streit really is the only choice. Hes the best player on the team and last year you really got the feeling that all of the younger guys respected him and looked up to him. Unless you have an older player with a HOF resume on your roster I feel its important for the captain to actually be a good player. Its easier to take advice from someone who is out there tearing it up. Not to spite Doug Weight, but i doubt he will be here after next season and we need to stop the revolving door of captains. Give it to Streit, he deserves it.
Streit proved to be a leader in his first season with the Islanders. He is going to be with the team for some time so yeah I feel he should wear the “C”. Weight and Witt should get the “A”.
I’d say Witt. But he’s not out of the woods yet with Flash. Streit a good pick. But I’d go with all A’s for next year. For the start of the 2010-11 season? Look at the ‘C’ for Okposo or Tavares.
I’ve been really impressed by Streit and believe he is far and away the best choice to wear the C.
One more thing. Streit seems to thrive on responsibility and being accountable for himself. I feel that has carried over to the other guys on the team. I think his time in Montreal really changed his whole perspective on everything and he is embracing the opportunity the isles gave him. He has not taken 1 second of it for granted. Theres really no question marks on whether or not he’d be able to handle it. He seems to want it.
Bailey wasn’t even close to the impact player as Okposo. The only “kid” who earned this consideration is KO. I hope Bailey keeps on progressing and becomes a future A but to address “Scott from post #29″, if you actually follow the Isles you would know the answer to your question.
I would really like to see Hunter wear the “C” next season. He is a guy who I could see flourishing in the captaincy. He is a gritty player, and wears his heart on his sleeve. I would name Streit and Weight the assistants.
Since Sutter and then “Flats” every time we hand out the “C” the unlucky recipient focuses on being captain and not on his play. Notice how well Guerin is playing now that he isn’t burdened with the “C”. And don’t say it’s just because of Crosby and Malkin. A system of rotating “A” is an honor, a reward if you will, and keeps the monkey off the back of one person day in and day out. Remember Peca, Yashin, KJ? It’s almost like the kiss of death. Their play deteriorates, and then then get traded, leave, etc. Give me an “A” all the way.
(30) Josh Bailey is 19 and had 7 goals last year. Good kid, good leadership potential. He doesn’t belong in this conversation for at least a few years and not until he establishes himself as a No. 2 center…CB
Isles say next year the Islanders should have three A’s (Park, Witt, Okposo), no captain. Wait for a young gun to emerge and captain the team to the next dynasty!
1. I wouldn’t mind 3 A’s this season. Streit was a stud this season and exceded all expectations. Before we crown him with a C, perhaps we can give him an A and be sure that Year One was not a fluke.
2. Cannot confirm within the NYI lockerroom, nor would I expect CB to say anything, but wouldn’t ‘likability among most/all teammates’ be a major factor in picking captain? From personal friends’ accts both within BU and St Seb’s lockerroom’s, Rick D wouldn’t qualify…
wow, what a negative reaction to my last post by #35. Clearly I’m not saying who is better. Have some respect, and read what I said. I’m saying from everything Chris, BD, and Logan are writing about the kid, he’ll make a great leader for the team.
Most recently see Chris’ pieces on May 6th “Point Blank Manifesto.”
Bailey wasn’t close to the player was KO was this past year. But neither was Park, Hunter and arguably Weight. It’s not who’s a better player, but who’s a better leader.
I can’t find the article I read, but the Islanders drafted Bailey that high for more than the projected offense he will provide.
I wouldnt mind KO getting the C. They`ve done it in Pittsburg with Crosby, and in Chiago with Towes. Why not on Long Island. Give Kyle a true leadership role and let him grow with the confidence of being the Isles captain for many years to come.
It will be Streit. If you asked me Beginning of last year i would have said Hunter. But Hunter just faded and it never seems he can every get enough fire in his Arse to step up and be a leader.
Streit is here for 4 more years. Leads by Example. He is our Guy.
My Vote goes to Mark Streit, #1 Great person, that is very well respected. #2 Mark Streit is an All Star. #3 Wanted to come, to the NY Islander’s. #4 I also believe, he very much likes being, a NY Islander. #5 Will probably retire, as a NY Islander, in say 6 years, or more. Thanks Chris, Mark N/J Go NY Islander’s!
I’d have a rotation of Park, Streit, and Weight.
Scott, I’m not sure how I was disrespectful, I just pointed out the obvious. Bailey isn’t in the same realm as Okposo, not yet. Don’t get your panties all up in a bunch, bro. We’re ALL Isles fans.
IMO, this is a very easy call…Streit gets the “C” for all of the reasons listed…”A” to Okposo and another “A” to either Weight or Witt
Scott, to further clarify, I’m saying if any of the kids are going to be considered, the ONLY kid who deserves any consideration, is Okposo.
I really don’t want to see another short term captain. I thought it was nailed when McCabe got the C, so much for that. I thought it was a mistake the day they gave Guerin the C b/c you knew he was only staying 1-3 years MAX. Maybe it’s better to keep a bunch of “A”’s b/c this team will be even more different in 2011. Or just give it to Witt b/c you know he’s a goner, and then KO can get it next year.
BTW, does Streit lift weights? Looking a lil soft in that picture ha, maybe he should start doing some push-ups before bed.
CB, I think you nailed it exactly as I would expect it to go.
That’s a nice collection of leadership regardless of who wears the letters officially.
Why not sign Lyle Odelein and make him captain? He is a gritty Dman who has past captaincy experience
Is it me or does Streit look more like an American Idol contestant than a hockey player in that pic?
All this time I’ve been thinking Weight for C because he’s got a great attitude and Streit seemed so quiet.
Emotional and outspoken in the locker room? Fiery behind closed doors? GREAT traits to have and a nice surprise to hear.
It does seem like the smart thing would be choose Streit for the stability factor, since he’ll be here for a while.
But not everyone is comfortable wearing the C. And, there IS responsibility that comes with it. Some people would rather lead from the background, and would do better for all involved in that situation.
Just thinking about Yashin, who didn’t seem comfortable with the C, and Guerin, who was “surprised” with the C (he did well, this is not a dig), it seems to me that the smart thing to do would be to
1. ASK the player privately how they would feel about being Captain and
2. give him time to weigh it out in his mind before going public with anything.
I personally would feel so much more comfortable knowing whoever it will be had the chance to mull it over and was genuinely excited about the honor.
In regard to having a youngster (Bailey or Okposo) as captain: How old was McCabe when Milbury made him captain?
Streit is the obvious choice. Witt and Weight with the A’s.
A good top 6 young player, but KO has not shown any sort of captaincy material yet. Shouldn’t even get an A.
DiPietro??? Please. No. Hopefully, he is on some other team by trade in two seasons.
I think Streit no doubt about it. He led the team in points, all star, improves the play of others, signed for another 4 years and he likes playing for the Islanders. KO is not ready to be a Captain. He’s not in the same class as Crosby or Toews…hopfully he will be one day.
DONT give Streit the ‘C’…Let him concentrate on his scoring and his game overall..He doesn’t need the pressure on him the first time he goes on a Scoring Drought..We saw how the Captaincy drowned McCabe & Jonsson..Lets not ruin another Offensive Defenseman…I say we give it to either Weight, Witt, Hunter or Park(I think Park was Captain in Minnesota already)..
Is a hockey player supposed to wear his equipment 24/7 not to be mistaken for some who dresses well for a photo.
Vote Streit again, I could also go with Alternating till one of the kids truly shines and really shows an example. Otherwise strong dman, here for 3 more years and more likely more if he is captain. Though they are all leaders, its nice to have a C on the ice, it gives the team identity.
I’m ok with Streit being named the next captain .He obviously leads by example on the ice but I’m not sure how vocal he is in the dressing room .
home A’s -Hunter/KO
away A’s -weight/witter
Why would any of you give the “A” to Okposo? I love the guy but he has played one year.
It should be
Streit
Witt
Weight
End of story
Everyone should read up on the responsibility of being a captain. Besides, on ice, and inside the locker room, there are administrative responsibility as well. In addition to that, the captain is the bridge between the players, and the coaching staff. Sometimes, he must challenge them on issues raised by the players. Do we really want KO to do all these? That’s why a veteran usually gets the job.
Streit no brainer.
C = Streit
A= Weight
A= Okposo
After last years debacle I dont think Witt should be in the running for the A. Weight is a character guy with so much to offer Bailey and the other young guns. We need a connection in the way of leadership to the young guys too so thats why I give the other “A” to Kyle. Also I think kyle is the kind of kid who will respond well to a little more responsibility on this team. Giving him the Captaincy would be WAY too much and would probably even hurt his development in my opinion. But, the kid can definitely handle the “A” and might even thrive on it.
Streit-Weight co-captaincy?
Two great leaders… one for the long-haul and on for the now. I think the dual-C’s can work pretty well.
I think this whole thing is pretty simple for me…
C - streit
A - park/weight
A - okposo
Streit is clearly the C after the all-star year last year, plus his experience and overall leadership. Park and Weight is a toss up as both can provide the necessary veteran leadership. Edge to Weight though for better ability to “converse” with the refs. The other A MUST be Okposo. Kyle was clearly the heart and soul of this team over the last 30 or so games last year. This is a fact that cannot be denied. To leave Okposo out of the group would be a dire mistake for a team desparate for an identity, on top of its need for a new home.
Captain- Mark Streit
Alternates- Brendan Witt, Doug Weight
If one of the above get injured, Give Hunter an “A”. There is no reason to force-feed a leadership role onto a kid and as far as DP goes, I NEVER want to see him as a captain. His ego doesn’t need any further boost.
rotate the C.
I think the problem is that the C should be chosen by the players. It was good enough for the Canadiens of the 40’s-70’s.
The C should be the leader of the players, the voice of the team to the coach and then the voice on the ice to refs on behalf of the coach. Never understood why the coach chooses?
Technically DP cannot wear the ‘C’ on ice even if he is named captain — it’s an NHL rule since 1948-49.
#66 (Craigger), completely and respectfully disagree. Okposo was arguably the most interesting Islander to watch the last 30 games, but no way was he the heart and soul of this Team. Last 30 or otherwise.
Streit was the heart and soul leader of this Team. All season long.
I go with NYCMatt (61). Streit, Weight/Witt.
Rotating an “A” and not naming a captain is a terrible thing, and absolutely NOT what this team needs. It’s clear cut: C=Mark Streit, A= Witt and Weight. There has been a revolving door with everything on this team - coaches, captains, and goalies thanks to our faberge-egg-of-a-net-minder - who might I add, should NOT be ANYWHERE near this discussion. Let’s stop the constant change (which would happen if they name Weight - even though he is deserving)-and give the “C” to Streit who is both deserving, and signed for 4 more years.
Brian (10): The fact that they gave the ‘C’ to Guerin w/out playing a game here is NOT unprecedented. They did the same w/Michael Peca (unless you count pre-season games).
The issue w/Weight is the fact that he’s only signed to 1 more year, has the potential to be deadline trade bait, and is nearing retirement. You can’t name a guy captain only for a likely partial year.
If Weight was younger, I all agree, he’s our next captain.
I think (not that I know) that Gordon should rotate the “C” … and among those the “A’s” should be given to Streit, Weight & Park … Let Okposo … and other young guns mature as players … Parkie is probably gone after this next season so… I have a gut feeling that this season is going to be a leap forward year for a few young guns in development … Comeau, Bailey, Nielsen, Tavares and some minor leaguers … so there will not really be much room for role playing forward like Parkie who will a) deserve a nice raise & Isles will be tight with $$$ to save for younger players … and b) he will be a 34 y/o UFA that is a prime candidate to be picked up by a contending team looking for that utility forward that can do a little of everything and c) Park will be looking for a short cut to the cup, so he’ll be open to signing with a contender … but hey … I could be wrong … it’s only a hunch.
IMO until one of the youngsters matures into the role just A’s. I see a “C” in Baily’s future……
either streit because he is in the mid age demographic of the team and would appeal to the young & older or KO because he is the most tenacious on ice player we have had since the early 80’s. Were you watching Mr. Tambelini?
I was a fan of giving Witt (or Scatchard) the “C” even when Guerin arrived. The comments on Streit helps me see that he would be a great choice and is the best single representitive of the new system, that is why having you, CB, as an insider is invaluable. Park also deserves recognition as his leadership cannot be ignored. However, I like the outspoken in your face captain to command respect league wide. I vote:
Witt - C
Streit - A
Park - A
I like the idea of Weight as C. with Striet and Hunter as a’s. I know Weight will be gone after next season,but he is a respected voice on the ice. Also,a lot scrapier than I thought. I didn’t realzie Streit was as much of a leader as is being reported,but that’s good. I alway’s felt Hunter was such a steady reliable player and also respected.
And,maybe 2 or 3 years from now,Taveras as the C.
I thought towards the middle of this year that it should be Streit, and still do. Credibility around the league, well-respected by the team, leader in the locker room, and most importantly, a big time leader on the ice. No sense talking a big game if you’re going to go out there and get a measly 5 goals and small handful of assists on the season or something. Streit puts up the numbers and has the right attitude…that’s pretty rare, and the Isles should recognize that by naming him captain.
I want a warrior who leaves it on the ice every game for the captain. My vote goes to Witt for the C. And if DP can stay healthy the next two years I would vote him successor. Nobody tries harder or wants to win more than these guys. No more Kenny J.’s or Yashin’s for Captain. Best players don’t always equal best captain. Streit doing great don’t saddle him with the added responsibility, give him an A along with Weight.
For the longest time I felt as though it would be Hunter who would become the next Captain. And I still think he would be a great choice. But given Streits talent, leadership (boy he helped Gervais big time last season) & contract I think he should get the C.
Ya know, this picture of Mark Streit is amazing. If you saw him walking down the street it would be easy to pass him off as a regular person - not a gifted player playing in the NHL!!!!!!!!
In fact, it looks like he has a slight budda belly and showing signs of man-boobs. Imagine if he were on a training program to shape up the upper body (you know his legs are powerful). We have a long Spring/Summer stint to make it happen . . .
Streit, besides the sweater look, is turning out to be a great pick up for Garth and the team. I am hopeful that Snow can continue to get at least 1 per year of quality additions to the team.
Between the draft and some other talent we may be in a better position, sooner than later, to make a run at a playoff position.
Great to hear how Streit is helping others on the team - that’s what it is all about and it’s contageous. I hope Wang can toss him some meaningful bonuses on the side for his above and beyond help with the young players. You know, a more personal thank you than just a paycheck.
Mark Streit is our captain, not only because he has talent but he spoke up to the media about who he thought the isles should draft #1 and he was very adamant we needed a sniper or goal scorer. He took the lead to let everyone know,defense is strong and he made it seem like he will hold his end of the bargain up. He seemed to be sending a message to Snow and management that the team needs a sniper. He displayed leadership, something this team needs!!
Streit. . .and the captain says “We need a sniper” Come to us JT. I believe he’ll look great in royal blue and orange. Sorry Toronto.
Haha I love CB’s comment on #39 saying Bailey needs a few years until he estalbishes himself as a number 2 center…But how come he’s not seen as a number 1 center? Oh yea because Tavares is going to be our number 1 center. And CB knows this!
Streit is the “C” - he is the very good example how the real hockey player should be. Okie has to get an “A” to lead the youth. And the second “A” I would give to one of these guys: Park or Hunter or Jackman, just for their work ethics and the team patriotism. Weight is wearing the invisible “A” anyway and he still the happiest guy on the team. Everyone(Team, Coaching staff, and media) will listen to him even without a letter on his sweater.
Willis (54): GREAT post… I really agree with your views on the Captaincy.
And as far as Okposo goes, I join in with those cautioning AGAINST stitching a letter on the kids jersey. He has only been able to buy a beer for a few weeks- and he is going to have enough pressure on him next season without any of that. Let him focus on growing and developing as a player, not upon the necessary demands of wearing a letter- either letter.
haha..making streit would be the best choice. And if the first year wasn’t a fluke and he performs every year on his contract years the same. Well, then its a big HAHA to Montreal. And we can officially say THANKYOU Montreal.
I agree with the first post (The Mick). Streit wears the C, Weight and Witt wear the A’s. Okposo with a letter soon.
the hope the islanders make weight caption only because the islanders always trade their caption. so i deem him most expendable choice among the candidates
C.J.(73) That’s the way I thought about Guerin. And they gave it to him. Guerin never was a mentor to anyone on this team like Weight was doing with Bailey. And you cant tell me you thought Guerin was gonna be here the whole time. Guy is trade bait material every year. I mean Streit has one good year and he is captain?? What if he flops this year? You need someone with experience, and if Weight stays healthy he still can put up some points. Weight will drop the gloves too, I dont really see Streit doing that, nor do I want him too.
TRENT HUNTER.
Unless he doesn’t want it, Hunter should be the Captain. Leading by example is more important than talking a big game.
i didnt read all the posts on this… this by far is still the best option… streit as captain…okposo and hunter with the A’s.. no one will ever complain
i think that they should rotate the C like the wild do. then its an honorary thing. plus, we have a lot of options for the job so it would work out well
Sorry if I offend anyone but…
How the F do you know how any Islander is in the locker room, at practice and off the ice. How the F do you know how anyone helps coaches by being able to quickly digest new info and pass it to the kids? How do you know the little intangables each human being on this team has?
Its all just fill to occupy the masses.
Its easy to say Streit or Witt or Weight or KO and come up with some reason. From a fan perspective we see our Captain as the player rep to the media, the go to guy. That being said, its only a small part of being captain.
Keep focused because it doesn’t matter who is captain is the logo on the sweater say KC!!!!
Keep bombing the TOH with demands to make the Lighthouse a reality.
CB…when are you going to partner with some other bloggers and hold a LH rally at TOH town hall????
Ok…I can’t reist.. LIRR ride is long, and its should be a golf day…
Weight is the choice.
1)Stop gap for one year (maybe two), mentor the two A’s who would be the next captain.
2)The dude has seen it all…many times over
3)He is a calming effect on a 2nd year coach and a team trying to establish an identity.
4) He’s the only proven established NHL guy we have that has been a leader on winning teams.
5) Would never hang his coach or players out to dry with the media. Keeps it in house.
The two A’s (no rotating BS should be the next in line guys.
A-Streit
1) Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Let me see him do it again. Let me see him continue the development of Gervais and expand it out to the Hillens and such.
2) Love his play but I didn’t see the guy as a leader in any way but his play and with Bruno. Let him learn something from Weight.
3) Who knows how the guys play will be affected with added redponsibility. I’m a show me type of guy.
A-Bailey or KO. (Whomever is the real leader of the young guys)
1) This person will be the captain for many years. Groom him slowly.
2) Potvin watched for a few years while Westphall and Gillies wore the C. When he was ready he led them to 4 cups.
I don’t think Streit would be a bad captain, but let this team sort it out for one more year internally, the real captain won’t need a C on his sweater.
gary (95) — Every question in your first paragraph was the subject of CB’s entire entry here…that’s what we’re going by, plus interviews throughout the whole season where players credited other players with helping them in certain areas of their game and adapting to NHL life on and off the ice (Bailey mentioning Weight, Gervais mentioning Streit). I guess CB and all the players could be purposely deceiving us for no good reason about locker room presence, etc., but, well, I don’t see why or how that would make any sense, so I’ll take them all at their word. While we’re not there directly, gary, that’s sort of the entire point of the media - to ask those questions and pass on the information you mentioned to the masses.
At #95 and #96: I personally do know. My brother in law played with Streit for years in both the National Team and the ZSC Lions team for years when Streit was captain. Streit is the complete opposite in the locker to his outside the locker behaviour. Moreover, before the last game of this year’s world championship, Streit send the couch out of the locker because he wanted to speak to the team himself. Moreover, the guy is used to be a captain AND still score many points. I really don’t see any particular reason why he should not wear the C?!? Give me a reason guys…
Can’t argue with first hand knowledge.
In reality I still think the players should vote for their captain.
No thanks to Guerin. Give it to Streit with an A to Okposo.
@Gary: I think so too - they chose the one they think is the best.
Streit C
Hunter A
Okposo A